Senior Living Blog

Our Middlewoods communities in Farmington and Newington recently celebrated some very special milestones! On Friday, March 22nd, Middlewoods of Farmington held a gala event to celebrate 20 years providing the highest level of meaningful living and care. Families from as far back as 20 years ago attended and enjoyed reconnecting with staff and other family members. Executive Chef Loretta Ward and her team created and oversaw numerous food stations including prime rib, pasta and sushi. The entire first floor was used for the party to accommodate two bands, lots of residents and family members cutting it up on the dance floor and the many guests who attended. One special (uninvited) guest, a black bear was a hit as he meandered through the back yard in the midst of the festivities.

When Middlewoods of Farmington resident Barry Gordon’s grandparents fled from Russia, a Russian priest who had befriended them gave them nun’s clothing for a safe escape. Other than that, the only things they took with them were candlesticks and wine cups as they sailed across the Atlantic Ocean to New York City. Not liking New York too much, his grandfather moved the family, including Barry’s mother and uncle, to Hartford. It was in Hartford in 1908 where his grandfather purchased a brass Menorah that has been passed down through the generations.

CALA’s 9TH ANNUAL ASSISTED LIVING EMPLOYEE AWARDS-OUTSTANDING RESIDENT SERVICE 2013 United Methodist Homes Assisted Living and Independent Living Communities are proud to announce the winners of the Connecticut Assisted Living Association’s (CALA) 9th annual assisted living “Resident Service” awards. We have had staff members from our Crosby Commons, Middlewoods of Farmington and Middlewoods of Newington communities win the outstanding resident service award. Below are the winners and a few highlights of their outstanding service. Zofia Kempna Zofia Kempna, CNA, does so much more than provide excellent care to the residents at Middlewoods of Newington. On a daily basis she goes above and beyond her assigned duties as a CNA while raising the bar of great resident care. Bi-lingual in English and Polish, Zofia has made a huge difference in the lives of the residents who speak Polish or any Ukrainian language – making them feel welcome and at home immediately. In addition, she works hard to help any resident where English is not their first language, understanding how hard it can be to struggle to be understood or to understand. Zofia always has a ready smile, hug or loving comment and has the ability to get even the most resistant or difficult resident in the shower with her soothing and calming way. No one can say no to Zofia! She makes a difference every day she is around!

At United Methodist Homes, we are always looking for opportunities to give back to the community and help others in need. One organization that we have a longstanding relationship of giving to is Spooner House in Shelton, CT which provides food, shelter, and services for those in need.